Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Who Qualifies & How Much
Last updated June 2026 · Educational overview, not legal or financial advice
The Earned Income Tax Credit puts thousands of dollars back in the pockets of working families — but about 1 in 5 eligible workers misses it. Here's who qualifies, how much it's worth, and how to claim it.
What is the EITC?
The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a refundable federal tax credit for low- to moderate-income workers. Because it's refundable, it can do more than reduce the tax you owe — it can result in a refund check even if you owed no tax. It's one of the largest anti-poverty programs in the country, yet the IRS estimates roughly one in five eligible workers misses it every year.
How much is the EITC worth?
The amount depends mainly on your income and how many qualifying children you have. The maximum credit for the 2024 tax year (filed in 2025) is up to $7,830 for a family with three or more qualifying children. Workers without children can also qualify for a smaller credit.
| Qualifying children | Maximum credit (2024 tax year) |
|---|---|
| 0 | $632 |
| 1 | $4,213 |
| 2 | $6,960 |
| 3 or more | $7,830 |
Maximum amounts for the 2024 tax year per the IRS. Income limits apply and figures are adjusted annually.
Who qualifies?
To claim the EITC you generally must have earned income from a job or self-employment, have a valid Social Security number, and fall under the income limits for your filing status and number of children. There are also limits on investment income. Many people who newly qualify do so after a change in income, marital status, or a new child — so it's worth checking each year even if you didn't qualify before.
How to claim it
You claim the EITC by filing a federal tax return — even if you aren't otherwise required to file. The IRS offers a free EITC Assistant tool to check eligibility and estimate your credit, and free filing options are available for many workers. Don't leave this money unclaimed.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the EITC?
For the 2024 tax year, the maximum credit ranges from $632 with no qualifying children up to $7,830 for families with three or more qualifying children. Your amount depends on income and family size.
Can you get the EITC with no children?
Yes. Workers without qualifying children can claim a smaller EITC — up to $632 for the 2024 tax year — if they meet the age and income requirements.
Is the EITC a refund?
The EITC is a refundable credit, which means it can increase your tax refund or give you a refund even if you owe no tax. You must file a tax return to receive it.
How do I claim the EITC?
File a federal tax return and claim the credit, even if you aren't otherwise required to file. The IRS EITC Assistant can help you check eligibility and estimate your credit for free.
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